WillCo Happenings: January 2015

It’s a bright and shiny New Year! And really, aren’t you ready to shake off the postholiday doldrums and enjoy some fun activities? From learning about a healthier lifestyle to great decorating workshops to art and music events, you won’t have any trouble adding interesting things to your 2015 calendar!

January 2: Franklin Art Scene

Stroll through historic downtown Franklin and enjoy art from more than 30 local galleries featured in stores and businesses at the Franklin Art Scene. Most of the locations are within walking distance of each other, and many serve wine and nibbles along the way. The event is free and runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first Saturday of every month. For more information, visit franklinartscene.com.

January 3: Lifting for Heroes

A fitness expo with health and wellness experts, mini fitness challenges and exercise competitions will all be part of this fun day of exercise and education. All proceeds support funding for service dogs for disabled veterans. The event runs January 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs. For more information, or to register to compete in the fitness challenge, visit liftingforheroes.com.

January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Franklin Farmers Market

Shop for fresh eggs, meat, cheese, handcrafted pottery, locally ground coffee, handmade artisan-crafted soaps and a bounty of other goods at the Franklin Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Factory, 230 Franklin Rd. For more information, go to franklinfarmersmarket.com.

January 5: Resolution Stripped at the Tin Cottage

Craving a healthier lifestyle but don’t know where to begin? Nutritionist and dietician McKel, of nutritionstripped.com, is sharing the steps you need to transition to a whole-food lifestyle, how to prepare healthy foods, what you need in your pantry and more. The workshop, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Tin Cottage, is $43.70 per person and includes healthy snacks. To purchase tickets, go to nutritionstripped.com.

January 7: Music City Roots

A live radio program focusing on Americana music, Music City Roots harkens back to radio performances that were part music, part theater and all magic. Check out the band Johnny Appleseed and other artists at the January 7 show, located at The Factory, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.. For ticket information, go to musiccityroots.com.

January 10: Hal Ketchum Album Release Concert

Celebrate the first full album release from legendary country artist Hal Ketchum at a concert featuring new works that push the boundaries of his country music roots. The concert is at the Franklin Theatre. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m.. Ticket prices start at $29.50. For more information, go to franklintheatre.com.

January 19-25: Nashville Restaurant Week

We know the name says Nashville, but this noteworthy group of dining destinations includes lots of Williamson County restaurants. Each of the eateries are intent on celebrating the experience of dining at locally owned and operated restaurants during January — all the better to tempt you with great food. GRAY’S on Main, Puckett’s, Red Pony, Saffire, Wild Iris and other restaurants are all offering curated menu options at amazing prices, so you can sample new food destinations or visit old favorites. For more information on menu options, pricing and more go to nashvilleoriginals.com.

January 24: Billy Yates and Friends at Puckett’s

Grammy-winning songwriter Billy Yates (he’s written for Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans and the legendary George Jones among dozens of others) is performing at Puckett’s at 8:3o p.m., with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Cover is $12 and reservations are recommended. For more information and to reserve your seat, go to puckettsgrocery.com.